“The most important point to be made is this: during my years here at SELH, the families of these clients have consistently told me that even though their loved ones have been treated at other fancier (private) places, they firmly believe that their mother, sister, brother got the best care here. As plain and stripped down as we are, the staff is the best and the care offered is unsurpassed. This staff is a big part of the outlying community. With the loss of (these) jobs, the community comprising of local merchants and businesses will suffer along with those who are laid off.”
–Social worker at Southeast Louisiana Hospital, commenting on the impact the hospital’s closure will have on Mandeville and surrounding area.
Louisiana Voice 
The Diagnostic Neuro Psychiatric Unit was the most advanced in the nation for treating dually diagnosed children who are traumatized. I pray they find the heart and the cash to keep this worthy program alive. Be advised that today’s untreated traumatized children just may be your nightmare in the future.
Do you think Jindal is specifically trying to make unemployment worse in order to help Romney and other Republicans get elected in November?
Republicans don’t care about other people’s children who are traumatized because they can afford private care for their own. They only care about making money and getting more Republicans elected. Between the teachers and the state workers we could probably get rid of Jindal and a majority of the rest of the Republicans if everyone voted.
This horrifies me, the robotics of the ALEC devotees who heartlessly turn every single government program into a for-profit business, as long as it’s a potential money-maker (or will just kill the program, if it isn’t). Government, if you do it right, operates for the good of the people; it is altruistic by nature. Programs are funded based on need, not profitability. This is a terrible path we are on. As many have seen in the education debacle, the supporters of these money-mongers often change their tune when the damage is actual instead of abstract. And this damage will be difficult to undo — impossible, if these types keep getting supported by the LA voters.
But, but, but… Corporations are People, too.
Tom, thank you for writing about our plight. From all the employees at Southeast to the patients who have a limited voice, we all thank you.
–Dr. Janet Bradley, psychiatrist on adult intermediate unit